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Llewellyn's Practical Magick
Magical Herbalism: The Secret Craft of the Wise
Natural magic utilizes the world around us for magical purposes. Herbs are one of the most important tools for natural magic, and the best introduction to this system is found in Scott Cunningham's Magical Herbalism. This book presents a complete system of magic using herbs. You will learn the theory of magic and the tools you'll need. Then you'll get countless techniques for using herbs for magic. Need a protection method? "Pick several protective herbs and bind the stems together with red thread, then hang them up. This practice dates back to Babylonian times." You'll find a list of over 115 herbs that details their magical powers, so you can easily find which ones are protective in nature. How about a divination using herbs? "Get a small quantity of dried patchouly, mugwort, or wormwood. Crumble the herb between your hands until it is finely diminished. Next, pour it into a small square pan (glass or ceramic). Light yellow candles and place the pan on your working area. Close your eyes, extend the index finger of your weak hand, and gently touch the center of the pan with its tip. Move it at random in the pan, shifting from one direction to another ... Now, remove your finger, open your eyes, and interpret the symbols you have just written in the herb." All of the techniques, rituals, spells, talismans, healing methods, and charms are this easy. And most importantly, they work! You'll also find how to make and use incenses, scented oils, perfumes, fluid condensers, and so much more. Here is your chance to work with a beautiful and simple system. Give it a try! You won't be disappointed.
265 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1982
188 people are currently reading
3419 people want to read
About the author
Scott Cunningham
113 books1,314 followersScott Douglas Cunningham was an American writer. Cunningham is the author of several books on Wicca and various other alternative religious subjects.
His work Wicca: A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner, is one of the most successful books on Wicca ever published; he was a friend of notable occultists and Wiccans such as Raymond Buckland, and was a member of the Serpent Stone Family, and received his Third Degree Initiation as a member of that coven.
His work Wicca: A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner, is one of the most successful books on Wicca ever published; he was a friend of notable occultists and Wiccans such as Raymond Buckland, and was a member of the Serpent Stone Family, and received his Third Degree Initiation as a member of that coven.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
April 27, 2020
Difficulty Level: Beginner
No magickal background necessary.
Pros:
- It's an occult/Pagan classic.
I believe this book was written for Pagans in general. Just know that it's written from a Wiccan perspective.
I highly recommend getting the ebook, so you can quickly find information on the herbs that you're using.
This is Cunningham's first book, and although it doesn't have the polish and organization of his later books, it's as comprehensive as his other books. The main different between this one and his book the Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs is that this one also talks about magickal gardening. The other difference is that it includes more folk magic type of spells.
- Botanical names are given for each plant so that you won't confuse them with plants that have the same common name.
Cons:
- No in-text citations. There's a bibliography though.
- Doesn't contain botanical drawings of the plants.
- Doesn't contain medicinal qualities of plants.
- Even though he encourages readers to also use modern medicine, his wording makes it sound like he's putting too much faith in the healing power of plants when it comes to the physical body (Plants, however, are great healers for the mind and psyche.). I think the reason is because he talks a lot about folklore, and folklore exaggerates how powerful plants are. You need to include a lot of disclaimers when discussing that type of thing, and indeed he does in the books that he wrote after this one.
- You may be offended by his views on cannabis, but keep in mind this was written back in the 1980s. I don't do drugs, so it doesn't bother me.
Not a con, but you should know that he doesn't say much about working with poisonous or entheogenic plants. This is because (A) they're dangerous and you should read an entire book on them before you even think of using them; and (B) this book is about the most commonly used plants among Pagans - mostly easily obtainable and inexpensive plants.
No magickal background necessary.
Pros:
- It's an occult/Pagan classic.
I believe this book was written for Pagans in general. Just know that it's written from a Wiccan perspective.
I highly recommend getting the ebook, so you can quickly find information on the herbs that you're using.
This is Cunningham's first book, and although it doesn't have the polish and organization of his later books, it's as comprehensive as his other books. The main different between this one and his book the Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs is that this one also talks about magickal gardening. The other difference is that it includes more folk magic type of spells.
- Botanical names are given for each plant so that you won't confuse them with plants that have the same common name.
Cons:
- No in-text citations. There's a bibliography though.
- Doesn't contain botanical drawings of the plants.
- Doesn't contain medicinal qualities of plants.
- Even though he encourages readers to also use modern medicine, his wording makes it sound like he's putting too much faith in the healing power of plants when it comes to the physical body (Plants, however, are great healers for the mind and psyche.). I think the reason is because he talks a lot about folklore, and folklore exaggerates how powerful plants are. You need to include a lot of disclaimers when discussing that type of thing, and indeed he does in the books that he wrote after this one.
- You may be offended by his views on cannabis, but keep in mind this was written back in the 1980s. I don't do drugs, so it doesn't bother me.
Not a con, but you should know that he doesn't say much about working with poisonous or entheogenic plants. This is because (A) they're dangerous and you should read an entire book on them before you even think of using them; and (B) this book is about the most commonly used plants among Pagans - mostly easily obtainable and inexpensive plants.
April 8, 2025
In three parts with appendices along with a bibliography, “Magical Herbalism: The Secret Craft of the Wise” by Scott Cunningham was an interesting read that shows on herbs were and continues to be used for magical purposes.
Cunningham is a good writer and provides a lot of culturally relevant information. He discusses a diverse number of plants and trees that are used. The author died at a relatively young age, so some of the information in his appendices—namely Appendix 3–is a bit outdated, but how the plants were used and continue to be used are still spot on.
This is a really good introductory book for people interested in learning the basics of how herbs are used by modern day people.
Cunningham is a good writer and provides a lot of culturally relevant information. He discusses a diverse number of plants and trees that are used. The author died at a relatively young age, so some of the information in his appendices—namely Appendix 3–is a bit outdated, but how the plants were used and continue to be used are still spot on.
This is a really good introductory book for people interested in learning the basics of how herbs are used by modern day people.
December 1, 2014
I didn't realize there was a difference between magic herbal healing and sacred plant medicine.
In witchcraft, the herbs are not ingested or used in a practical manor, they are used for ritual. There's nothing wrong with that! It's just not where my interests are right now. Maybe in my 'California years'.
I did enjoy the final section about planning your magic herb garden, which can be translated to anyone who is planning a garden with a special purpose.
The beautiful cover and Art Nouveau style of this book is what drew me in. Not a bad way to spend an evening.
In witchcraft, the herbs are not ingested or used in a practical manor, they are used for ritual. There's nothing wrong with that! It's just not where my interests are right now. Maybe in my 'California years'.
I did enjoy the final section about planning your magic herb garden, which can be translated to anyone who is planning a garden with a special purpose.
The beautiful cover and Art Nouveau style of this book is what drew me in. Not a bad way to spend an evening.
Read
July 28, 2011Scott Cunningham is one of the foremost experts on Wicca and traditional witchcraft. Everything he wrote about he either used and was successful with or he researched very thoroughly.
Magical Herbalism is a book about the magical usage of herbs. The first chapter explains the use of a magic knife your altar and your candles. THe books tells you how to consecrate your knife for magical and sacred use. And when working with herbs for the sake of certain outcomes he tells you which colors to use for candles and for cloth.
The next chapters explain the threory of magic and the powers that exist within us and within the herbs themselves. These power can be harnessed via visualization and incantation in order to help us to improve our lives.
The book has extensive information on how and when to plant your herbs. It is written in an easy to understand manner that even a beginner such as myself can make use of. The book also has recipes for different oils, bath and incenses.
The instruction on making and maintaining your magical garden are thorough and complete. More over they are easy to follow. The chapters on gardening offer great tips on magical pest control and rituals on sanctifying your garden.
If you are a beginner or advanced in herbalism or magic I strongly advise reading this book.
Magical Herbalism is a book about the magical usage of herbs. The first chapter explains the use of a magic knife your altar and your candles. THe books tells you how to consecrate your knife for magical and sacred use. And when working with herbs for the sake of certain outcomes he tells you which colors to use for candles and for cloth.
The next chapters explain the threory of magic and the powers that exist within us and within the herbs themselves. These power can be harnessed via visualization and incantation in order to help us to improve our lives.
The book has extensive information on how and when to plant your herbs. It is written in an easy to understand manner that even a beginner such as myself can make use of. The book also has recipes for different oils, bath and incenses.
The instruction on making and maintaining your magical garden are thorough and complete. More over they are easy to follow. The chapters on gardening offer great tips on magical pest control and rituals on sanctifying your garden.
If you are a beginner or advanced in herbalism or magic I strongly advise reading this book.
October 3, 2016
Worthwhile companion volume to Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, and The Complete Book of Incense, Oils, and Brews. I have read a few reviews from readers who felt that this book was unnecessary if you already had a copy of the Encyclopedia, but I have to disagree. It's probably unnecessary for us old hands who've been working with plants for a while, but a beginner who only picked up a copy of the Encyclopedia would likely be at a loss. Magical Herbalism is the practical how-to, and the Encyclopedia is the reference volume that expands on its predecessor. But enough of that!
This is a great book for the newcomer to magical herbalism and witchcraft. In the first part, Scott walks the reader through acquiring the necessary tools for creating herbal concoctions, building up a useful store of herbs, and empowering those herbs for ritual use.
Part Two gives an overview of the many ways to utilize herbs in spellcraft: protection, divination, healing, and love. Fluid condensers are treated briefly, along with the basics of creating incenses, oils and amulets. This section of the book is like a practical instruction manual for getting your feet wet. Each chapter, though short, includes a few different rituals to perform to get a feel for the art. I liked this approach a lot, and I think it's a good one. How are you going to know what you enjoy or have a knack for unless you try out all these things?
There's also a materia magica included for commonly employed herbs to get you started. It ain't nothing compared to the one in the Encyclopedia, but it gives you the information necessary to know WHY you're using the ingredients and combinations given in those previous practical chapters. Knowing why you're doing something in witchcraft, I would argue, is just as important as knowing how to do it. Otherwise you'll be going through the motions and not really learning anything.
If this is a subject that one decides to pursue further, I recommend picking up its companion volumes, along with Paul Beyerl's two titles on herbalism.
This is a great book for the newcomer to magical herbalism and witchcraft. In the first part, Scott walks the reader through acquiring the necessary tools for creating herbal concoctions, building up a useful store of herbs, and empowering those herbs for ritual use.
Part Two gives an overview of the many ways to utilize herbs in spellcraft: protection, divination, healing, and love. Fluid condensers are treated briefly, along with the basics of creating incenses, oils and amulets. This section of the book is like a practical instruction manual for getting your feet wet. Each chapter, though short, includes a few different rituals to perform to get a feel for the art. I liked this approach a lot, and I think it's a good one. How are you going to know what you enjoy or have a knack for unless you try out all these things?
There's also a materia magica included for commonly employed herbs to get you started. It ain't nothing compared to the one in the Encyclopedia, but it gives you the information necessary to know WHY you're using the ingredients and combinations given in those previous practical chapters. Knowing why you're doing something in witchcraft, I would argue, is just as important as knowing how to do it. Otherwise you'll be going through the motions and not really learning anything.
If this is a subject that one decides to pursue further, I recommend picking up its companion volumes, along with Paul Beyerl's two titles on herbalism.
July 26, 2018
Cunningham's books are one of the best resources on Wicca. Although I'm not Wiccan I use his books for research or for beginners. Even so, I was disappointed with the content in Magical Herbalism. Cunningham has always made his spells accessible. Regardless of age, sex, or location. He believed that magick should be practiced according to what felt right to the person. If one wanted to change or adapt his spells they were welcome to do so. None of those ideals are found in this book. Magical Herbalism is formulaic. A book about herbology has no place for dogma. Many of the requests in the book are unreasonable. Cunningham asks the reader that they find a place untouched by humanity. A forest or a mountain that is near a stream where only the reader can have access to it. What if you live in a city? What if you find a shed, but it's not near a stream? Where are you going to find a mountain if you live in flat land area? None of these things are feasible.
The beginning explains what magick and herbs are. Wicca 101 essentially. The other half of this book is in list form. The reader is better off just reading his Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs or any of his other books. There is nothing in this book he hasn't already written about.
What I like about this book happens to also be what I dislike about it. I love that Mr. Cunningham includes the folklore of each plant, crystal, or oil. On the other hand, the folklore included is superstitious. I'm an open-minded person, but I'm logical. Some of these spells are simply childish and silly. I will never understand why in all his books Mr. Cunningham always included information on love spells. It seems like something that a hormone crazy teenager claiming to be a witch would use in attempts to make their crush fall in "love" with them.
In conclusion, one is better off reading his other books which actually have useful information.
The beginning explains what magick and herbs are. Wicca 101 essentially. The other half of this book is in list form. The reader is better off just reading his Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs or any of his other books. There is nothing in this book he hasn't already written about.
What I like about this book happens to also be what I dislike about it. I love that Mr. Cunningham includes the folklore of each plant, crystal, or oil. On the other hand, the folklore included is superstitious. I'm an open-minded person, but I'm logical. Some of these spells are simply childish and silly. I will never understand why in all his books Mr. Cunningham always included information on love spells. It seems like something that a hormone crazy teenager claiming to be a witch would use in attempts to make their crush fall in "love" with them.
In conclusion, one is better off reading his other books which actually have useful information.
March 13, 2016
If I Could Only Bring Just ONE....
it was 1982 and i was standing in Berkeley... not even old enough to drink yet. it was 1st print 1st edition brand spanking new in my hands and is now, One of my Oldest, and 32 years later, still one of my Best 'New' additions to the beginnings of my personal library. i HOPE i still have my original copy -trapped in a box, somewhere safe- because of all the books that came and went thru my hands, THIS ONE BOOK of them all, was the first, the easiest, most flexible, eternal, consistent, adaptable, and still just as useful for this decades older novice of The Way! I highly suggest this NOT be left out of your path to Your WAY!
(if i ever find my copy, i will submit a dig-pic of the original green cover...!)
it was 1982 and i was standing in Berkeley... not even old enough to drink yet. it was 1st print 1st edition brand spanking new in my hands and is now, One of my Oldest, and 32 years later, still one of my Best 'New' additions to the beginnings of my personal library. i HOPE i still have my original copy -trapped in a box, somewhere safe- because of all the books that came and went thru my hands, THIS ONE BOOK of them all, was the first, the easiest, most flexible, eternal, consistent, adaptable, and still just as useful for this decades older novice of The Way! I highly suggest this NOT be left out of your path to Your WAY!
(if i ever find my copy, i will submit a dig-pic of the original green cover...!)
February 15, 2017
I love Scott Cunningham's work, his contributions to the Pagan community are far flung and despite his death, he still continues to make a meaningful impact on people. If you are into magickal herbalism or are wanting to learn more about the topic, get this book. It is complimentary to his book "Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs."
January 4, 2025
Good book for understanding how witchcraft was viewed in the early ‘80s. However, now (obviously), 45ish years later it is a bit outdated. This springs from the contradiction in his words.
There are certain passages in this book that state various ‘needs’ for spells are not actually necessary (and jokes that things can be too exact to a fault) and he goes on to say that it’s all about intention. If the intention and belief is strong, so will the outcomes be, almost to the fault. If you believe it is true so be it. Later in the book there are mentions of very specific things that if some were to ignore or miss it would make all the difference for things to work.
I believe the modern witch adheres to many of the old traditions, but if spells are causing anxiety because of all the absolute needs and requirements, then that will carry into the work, making anxiety part of the intention. Believe what you believe and your intuition.
There are certain passages in this book that state various ‘needs’ for spells are not actually necessary (and jokes that things can be too exact to a fault) and he goes on to say that it’s all about intention. If the intention and belief is strong, so will the outcomes be, almost to the fault. If you believe it is true so be it. Later in the book there are mentions of very specific things that if some were to ignore or miss it would make all the difference for things to work.
I believe the modern witch adheres to many of the old traditions, but if spells are causing anxiety because of all the absolute needs and requirements, then that will carry into the work, making anxiety part of the intention. Believe what you believe and your intuition.
May 13, 2022
Other than using antisemitic nicknames for an herb and stating drug addiction is a sign of weakness, a pretty informative book. It’s old and probably outdated but made clear this book was not for medical advice, and so far has worked just fine for my practice.
June 9, 2011
Magical Herbalism by Scott Cunningham explores the use of herbs in magic and wicca, but more than that he demystifies the origins of of our common beliefs regarding the effectiveness of certain herbs. Cunningham explains how to gather herbs and avoid poisons in the process. He explains the effectiveness and general acceptance of herbal use in magic. He lists a variety of herbs including their properties and what magic they are most useful in performing. He even gives guided instructions for planting a magical herbal garden. Magical Herbalism contains a thread of the importance of being respectful and thankful for the plants that surround us and what they can do for us throughout the entire book. Cunningham's appreciation for the natural world shines through in this informative book. For anyone who has ever wondered about herbs and the mystic surrounding them, Magical Herbalism provides a practical, easy to understand origin of the beliefs surrounding the power of herbs. If nothing else, the reader will come away appreciating herbs in a new way.
February 10, 2016
Not half as cool as Cunningahm's "Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs," this focuses a lot more on spell-casting and ceremonial magic which is not really my cup of brew. But it's an interesting read, well-written.
November 26, 2017
Mostly has a lot of the herbal encyclopedia copied over but some interesting new information regardless. I finished this a lot sooner but fell out of reading for a while so it looks like it's been 2 and a half years, haha
August 23, 2007
Good...solid...nothing too complex. A decent introductory text for wort-cunning.
June 28, 2008
Just brilliant, great for a quick reference book. Well written and some really juicy bits of knowledge.
October 4, 2008
Decent reference
March 20, 2009
Informative book with great rituals.
May 3, 2009
Great book for deepening one's craft as a witch/ChristoPagan/Wizard/Mage/Magician.
June 18, 2011
I love this book. I have been using it for years and now my daughter uses it. Great little compendium of information.
June 3, 2012
Someone I regard due to his books being top quality. Although I thought there was a lack of herbs as well I know to be useful.
But excellent book
But excellent book
July 12, 2012
A handy reference guide for anyone practicing Wicca.
May 14, 2016
I love this book. This is a Spanish version and well written.
February 20, 2017
Great. Basic, easy to read, and a good reference.
December 22, 2018
Given my interest in the subjects of magic and herb gardening, and that I’ve read other books by Scott Cunningham, this book was a good way to combine both topics. Cunningham’s writing style is smooth, simple, and to the point. Chapters are well organized and the information on different herbs was impressive.
Magical Herbalism won’t make anyone an expert on the subject, but it’s a really good introduction to the basics. Cunningham provides a detailed list of the purpose specific herbs have for healing, protection, love, purification, and other things. My specific interest is in plants that assist in healing, and there was plenty of good information there. But there is also much more to be learned.
Magical Herbalism won’t make anyone an expert on the subject, but it’s a really good introduction to the basics. Cunningham provides a detailed list of the purpose specific herbs have for healing, protection, love, purification, and other things. My specific interest is in plants that assist in healing, and there was plenty of good information there. But there is also much more to be learned.
April 3, 2017
Way too much Wicca, not enough herbalism. Yes Cunningham is a Wiccan author, and yes I knew that going in. I actually really enjoy his books for solitary practitioners even though I do not personally identify as Wiccan. But the dogmatic vibe throughout this one in particular just did not sit well with me. If you're Wiccan or super (like, SUPER) into rituals, give it a shot! Although it wasn't right for me, it very well could work for your own craft. If you'd rather skip all the ritual stuff and get to the herbs, all the information found in this book is readily available through simple Google searches.
March 3, 2021
Rating: 5+ bouquets / 5
Once again, Cunningham has captured my attention and admiration and wonder, this time through delving into the wonderful world of herbalism!
I am very excited and eager to try many things out for myself from this book, as well as try my first hand ever at gardening—yes, really! I can’t wait to experience and find out if I do have a green thumb or not, as well as start making my own spells and forming my craft!
Yet another of Cunningham’s books that is going gratefully up on my shelves and going to be referenced over and over again in the future! Blessed be!
Once again, Cunningham has captured my attention and admiration and wonder, this time through delving into the wonderful world of herbalism!
I am very excited and eager to try many things out for myself from this book, as well as try my first hand ever at gardening—yes, really! I can’t wait to experience and find out if I do have a green thumb or not, as well as start making my own spells and forming my craft!
Yet another of Cunningham’s books that is going gratefully up on my shelves and going to be referenced over and over again in the future! Blessed be!
September 17, 2018
I only gave this 3 stars due to a sentence towards the end, “drug addiction is a sign of weakness”. Ugh whatever, it’s a disease. Any way, other than that this is a wonderful reference book for a hedgewitch.
February 10, 2019
Short but full of useful information. This book definitely leans more toward Wicca, which is not really my thing, but still a very good book for any witchy craft or even if you're just interested in herbs, herbal remedies, aromatherapy...
February 5, 2022
As always a huge fan of Cunningham's work. Lots of useful information on herbs, gardening, rituals, recipes, etc. I'm happy to have this is my collection and will definitely be using it a ton for reference.
September 17, 2025
A classic of the Craft. Cunningham puts a lot of easy to understand information into this, and he knows his herbs. It is written from a Wiccan perspective - but if you worship differently it's no problem to just take what you want from it and adapt it to your own beliefs.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews